June 28, 2004
CONTACT: SID GAULDEN, 803-896-8409
COLUMBIA – The South Carolina Department of Public Safety named Lance Corporal B.P. Norris the South Carolina Highway Patrol Troop 5 Trooper of the Year at a June 23 ceremony.
Norris is currently stationed in Troop 5 in Darlington County. He began his career with the Patrol in 2000 assigned to Horry County. He was transferred to Darlington County in September 2003.
“Senior Trooper Norris is an outstanding trooper who has continuously distinguished himself and the South Carolina Highway Patrol by providing selfless, efficient service beyond the call of duty,” said Highway Patrol Col. Russell Roark.
One example of his outstanding work occurred on June 22, 2003. Senior Trooper Norris was traveling east on U.S. 501 in the Myrtle Beach area of Horry County. As he crossed the Intracoastal Waterway, he observed a vehicle stopped in the westbound lanes of traffic on the Intracoastal Waterway Bridge. He turned around to investigate what appeared to be a traffic collision. As he approached the vehicle, he was informed that the vehicle was left unoccupied in the roadway with the door open and the driver was sitting on the bridge rail in a position to jump from the bridge. It appeared the subject was preparing a suicide attempt.
Senior Trooper Norris cautiously approached the individual while assessing her demeanor and mental stability. As the subject prepared to jump, Senior Trooper Norris, without hesitation or regard for his personal safety, quickly reached over the bridge rail, restrained the subject and prevented her from jumping. He pulled her back onto the bridge, saving her life. The subject was taken into custody by the Horry County Police Department and transported to a local hospital for a mental evaluation. Senior Trooper Norris’ quick and decisive action is just one example of his dependability, dedication to duty and attention to detail.
Norris, a Hartsville native, is married to Casey Norris. He is a graduate of Hartsville High School and attended Florence Darlington Technical College.
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